An American Pope!

Following the death of Pope Francis, a series of meetings took place at the Vatican, called general congregations. Here, Cardinals discussed the needs and challenges currently facing the Catholic Church globally. They also prepared for the papal election to take place, which is called a conclave. This is when 133 cardinal electors would be gathered to elect the next pope inside the Sistine Chapel.

              On May 5th, 2025, Robert Prevost of the United States was named Pope Leo XIV. At 69 years old, he is named the first American pope in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church. As a missionary, Provost spent his career ministering in Peru and led the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops, bearing one of the most important jobs in the Catholic Church. The new pope has spent much of his life outside the United States, so he’s considered to have a global perspective.  “Peace be with all you,” he said after getting elected. He was met with joyful cheering from a crowd of an estimated 150,000 people, according to Italian officials.  During his address to the cheering crowds in St. Peter’s Square, in the Spanish language, he briefly thanked the city of Chiclayo, in Norther Peru where he was bishop. In addition to English and Spanish, he also speaks Italian, French, and Portuguese, and reads Latin and German.

              Overall, Pope Leo XIV is a solid pick for pope. He is a humble, compassionate, and unifying leader who embodies the values the Church needs today. He’s deeply connected to people of all kind, is considerate in his decisions, and committed to making the Church a better place for all. Having a steady and approachable presence, he represents hope, balance, and a clear moral voice in an increasingly divided world.